Personal and Organizational Risk Factors for Vicarious Trauma

Clinical and research literature describes a multitude of personal and organizational risk factors associated with vicarious trauma in the trauma field. We cannot change some of them, for instance, a personal history of trauma, but we can definitely modify others, such as learning more positive coping mechanisms or providing vicarious trauma prevention trainings in our agencies.

Personal Risk Factors:

• A personal history of trauma
• Preexisting mood disorders
• Unhealthy coping mechanisms
• Being younger in age
• Lack of life outside of work
• Lack of hobbies and support groups
• Having limited professional experience

Organizational Risk Factors:

• Limited supervision
• Working with too many clients
• Geographical and social isolation
• Having limited training about vicarious trauma and its prevention
• Working with a high percentage of traumatized children
• Working with clients who are underserved and disadvantaged
• Working for poor pay, under stressful conditions, with limited resources
• Lack of acknowledgement by agency that vicarious trauma exists
• Lack of acknowledgement by agency that vicarious trauma is a normal reaction to clients’ trauma

Of course, having some or all of these risk factors does not necessarily mean that you or your organization are in deep trouble. For example, not everyone in the family where there diabetes is prevalent will definitely get it. However, doctors will always point out that risks factors are there, and encourage the person at risk to practice caution and mindfulness, eat more healthy, and exercise. The same approach applies with vicarious trauma risk factors as well. And when it all seem overwhelming, remember that a 1000 mile journey always begins with 1st step! Go Forth, Do Incredible Things, and Self-Care!

This posted is adapted from “Victim Advocate’s Guide to Wellness: Six Dimensions of Vicarious Trauma-Free Life.” by Olga Phoenix, MPA, MA.